Program Overview

Bioinformatics MSc

Overview

This programme teaches you how to manage and manipulate large datasets to reveal new insights in biological sciences. You get intensive training in a computer-based approach to biological research. You develop the computational and analytical understanding necessary as a platform for processing biological data. This involves the appreciation of biochemistry and molecular biology, together with IT and specialist skills in computer programming, data analysis, statistics and computational biology for multidisciplinary careers in research.

Course Details

Core Modules

• Bioinformatics Analysis Techniques and Tools
  • Develop advanced bioinformatics knowledge and practical data analysis skills.
  • Study the application of state-of-the-art bioinformatics and computational biology approaches to problem solving relating to high-throughput microarray, next generation sequencing and functional genomics datasets derived from real or simulated research scenarios.
• Data Analytics
  • Gain core knowledge in statistical methods and the practical skills to apply and perform data analytics.
  • Develop a solid foundation in statistical concepts and the different data analysis approaches and pipelines used in bioinformatics studies.
• Genomic Technologies
  • Explore ‘omics’ technologies and bioinformatics and learn about most recent technologies, next generation sequencing (such as Nanostring and Illumina platforms), CRISPR-Cas system and genome editing, genomic and bioinformatics analyses, genomic application for disease treatment and prevention (pharmacogenomics), personalised medicine as well as ethical challenges in this field.
• Life Science Research Project
  • You undertake a major independent practical research project in your discipline while fully integrated within a research team.
  • Reflecting staff expertise, you pursue many discipline-related topics, including medical, industrial and environmental microbiology, molecular, cell and system biology, recombinant DNA technology, protein biochemistry, structural biology, fermentation, bioengineering and many other areas, using the state-of-the-art analytical and digital infrastructure at the National Horizons Centre.
• Proteomic Technologies
  • You explore ‘omics’ technologies focused on the translational and post-translational mechanisms.
  • Learn about most recent technologies, next generation sequencing, proteomics, phospho-proteomics, metabolomics (such as mass spectrometry) bioinformatics analyses, applications for disease treatment and prevention (pharmacogenomics), personalised medicine and ethical challenges in this field.
• Python for Bioinformatics
  • You are introduced to the popular programming language of Python, a powerful scripting language in bioscience and found throughout bioinformatics and scientific computing.
  • The first half of the module introduces basic principles of coding and interface interaction.
  • In the second half you learn a script language for statistical computing and graphics and more advanced practices.
• R for Bioinformatics
  • You are introduced to the popular programming language of R, which is widely used and powerful in bioscience, bioinformatics and scientific computing.
  • R especially shines where a variety of statistical tools are required (such as RNA-Seq and population genomics) and in the generation of publication-quality graphs and figures.

How You Learn

• Making the transition to postgraduate-level study can be challenging.
• Support with making this transition is seen as an important element of this programme.
• The Data Analytics and Algorithms for Bioinformatics and Database Theory and Application modules help you understand the requirements of academic study at postgraduate level, to enhance your skills in academic writing and referencing, and to help you develop the skills necessary to operate professionally and ethically in planning and implementing a master’s-level research project.
• By including work-based problem-solving projects and case study exercises this programme emphasises real-world working.
• This helps to develop your critical thinking skills as well as your ability to design, execute and present findings of research, allowing you to cultivate the skills employers are seeking to set you on a successful career path.
• A significant feature of the programme is the opportunity to gain experience of working in state-of-the-art bioinformatics research facilities within the National Horizon Centre.

How You Are Assessed

• You are assessed on subject knowledge, independent thought and skills acquisition through formative and summative assessment.
• Modules are assessed by a variety of methods including examination and in-course assessment with some utilising other approaches such as, oral presentations, technical interviews and technical reports alongside literature surveys, evaluations and summaries.
• You are presented with an assessment schedule providing details of the submission deadlines for summative assessments.

Entry Requirements

• Applicants are normally expected to have at least a UK 2.2 honours degree, or equivalent, in a subject related to life or physical sciences.
• If your first degree is not in one of the subject areas listed above please contact our admissions team for guidance and advice on how you might become eligible.
• International applicants can find out what qualifications they need by visiting Your Country.
• In addition, international students normally need at least a 6.0, with no component below 5.5, in the International Language Testing System (IELTS) test.

Employability

Work Placement

• There may be short-term placement opportunities, particularly during the project phase of the course.

Career Opportunities

• Our bioinformatics programme equips you with a strong foundation for further PhD research or for prospective employment.
• There is an increasing demand for bioinformatics skills across the biotechnology, life sciences and pharmaceutical sectors.
• The ability to manage, analyse, integrate and visualise big data using technologies such as Python and R is also applicable to fields including software development, data analytics and finance.

Information for International Applicants

Qualifications

• International applicants - find out what qualifications you need by selecting your country below.

Fees

Full-time

• Fee for UK applicants: £8,365 a year
• Fee for international applicants: £17,000 a year
• Length: September enrolment: 1 year, January enrolment: 16 months, including a summer break
• Start date: January or September
• Semester dates

Part-time

• Fee for UK applicants: £930 for each 20 credits
• Length: September enrolment: 2 years, including a summer break, January enrolment: 28 months, including two summer breaks
• Attendance: 1 day a week
• Start date: January or September
• Semester dates

Choose Teesside

• Stand out from other job applicants with your higher level qualification, specialist knowledge and expanded networks.
• Improve your project management, critical thinking, research skills, time management, presentation skills and teamwork.
• The median salary for working-age postgraduates (£45,000) was £6,500 more than for working-age (those aged 16 to 64) graduates (£38,500) in 2022.
• Study in our friendly town-centre campus with £280m of recent investment.
• Study at Europe's first Adobe Creative Campus and develop your creative and digital skills.